Alicante, Spain

Sun, sea and sand are the 3 prime reasons people visit Alicante. The place has a timeless charm, and it is easy to fall in love with this laid-back city. The warm weather Alicante enjoys year-round greatly helps visitors relax and enjoy the charms of this picturesque beach resort.

A wealth of beaches

Playa del Postiguet is the main beach in the heart of the resort, with clean, safe sands on which to have fun, while the smaller and quieter Playa del Coco is but a short walk away. San Juan Beach is a few miles out of the resort centre but is packed with activity options, including plentiful shops and bars. The sands simply never run out in Alicante; but if you prefer a rocky beach with crystal clear waters, at the Cabo de las Huertas, you’ll find a rugged, rocky area with coves such as Los Cantarales, Los Judios and Palmera.

Towering above Alicante

Alicante is a city that lends itself well to walking, whether that’s through the old town or along the fabulous waterfront promenade, Esplanada d’Espanya. You can even walk up to the jewel in the city’s crown, the Castillo de Santa Bárbara, which occupies a dramatic location on top of a hill above the city (though it might be a smart move to avoid the strenuous hike by getting the lift from opposite the beach). Visit this 16th-century fort for sunset and you’ll find it busy with locals out for an evening walk or kids playing football, and you can savour mesmerising views over the coast and inland.

Sightseeing

Museums and the Mercado Central

For a culture fix, don’t miss two outstanding museums: the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo de Alicante, which has work by Miró and Picasso among its collection, and the Museo Arqueológico Provincial, recounting the city’s history through ceramics, art and other exhibits. I you’re hungry, head to Alicante's wonderful Mercado Central, which is a riot of sights, smells, sounds and tastes; and, if you fancy an afternoon tipple to go with your fresh fruit and octopus, even has a vermouth bar.

Glorious food

The city offers a platter of traditional Spanish dishes with a regional twist. The rich Mediterranean flavours, fresh produce and seafood are sure to delight foodies. Visitors should try the mouth-watering paella, stuffed squid and sweet delicacy, turrons,